DS Automobiles has just unveiled the mid-cycle restyling of its midsize SUV, the DS 7. The French model has received several cosmetic updates; In addition, along the way, it has lost the surname “Crossback” that characterized its predecessor. On the other hand, it also launches a renewed mechanical range that includes new plug-in hybrid versions.
The main change that we can find on the outside is the DS Light Veil daytime running lights, which take on much more elaborate forms. The DS Pixel LED Vision 3.0 headlights are also new, while the grille and the DS Wings that join it to the headlights have been widened, giving the front more presence.
On the side, only the designs of the wheels up to 21 inches change, while at the rear the most striking modification is the inscription “DS Automobiles”, which replaces the previous “Crossback”. The pilots have also been transformed, as they are now slimmer and more stylized than in the previous model.
In the cabin, we find new colors and upholstery, as well as an ambient lighting system with a new pattern. The DS Iris System infotainment system, for its part, is associated with digital instrumentation and a touch screen in the horizontal format of the same size (12 inches).
The DS 7 will have three plug-in hybrid versions
The mechanical range will consist of three gasoline engines (PureTech 130, 215, and 225 hp), a diesel (BlueHDi 130 hp), and three plug-in hybrid options (E-TENSE 225, 300, and 360 hp). If we focus on the PHEV versions, we will see that the E-TENSE 225 combines a 180-hp PureTech engine with a 110-hp electric drive through an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
While this model is a front-wheel drive, the E-TENSE 4×4 300 adds a second 112 hp electric motor on the rear axle, so it enjoys all-wheel drive. The E-TENSE 4×4 360 shares mechanical parts with the immediately inferior version, but thanks to a series of specific adjustments it goes one step further in terms of performance.
All DS 7 E-TENSE share the use of a 14.2 kWh battery pack that provides up to 65 km WLTP of range in electric mode. They can charge at a maximum of 7.4 kW in alternating current, taking just two hours to recover 100% of their range. Order books for the revamped DS 7 will open this summer, while the first deliveries are scheduled for September.
